France to shut 'non-essential' public places including restaurants, cafes, theaters

People are seen inside a restaurant, on March 14, 2020. France on March 14, 2020 drastically stepped up its measures against the spread of the coronavirus, announcing the closure of all non-essential public places including restaurants and cafes from midnight (2300 GMT).

French Prime minister Edouard Philippe announces the closure of all non-essential public places including restaurants and cafes from midnight local time, in a bid to halt the spread of the novel coronavirus.

"I have decided on the closure until further notice from midnight of places that receive the public that are non-essential to the life of the country. This includes notably cafes, restaurants, cinemas and discos," Prime Minister Edouard Philippe told reporters.

French Prime Minister Edouard Philippe (L) speaks, flanked by French Director General of Health Jerome Salomon (R), as he announces new measures to limit the spread of COVID-19, the new coronavirus, on March 14, 2020, in Paris. (Photo by AFP)

Death toll from the coronavirus outbreak keeps rising in Europe despite the governments’ measures to battle the disease.

France's Public Health Authority also raised the total death toll to 91 with 12 new deaths. In Spain, 70 new deaths were reported, as well.

Authorities in Madrid have also urged people to stay home. They have imposed a nationwide lockdown as part of the country’s state of emergency measures.

In the UK, Health authorities announced 10 more deaths. The World Health Organization has questioned the country’s approach to contain the COVID-19.

Press TV’s website can also be accessed at the following alternate addresses: